Pulmonary Embolism: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to pulmonary embolism, covering warning signs, urgent diagnosis and treatment for this blood clot in the lungs.
Treatment usually begins with
Urgent Assessment
CT Pulmonary Angiography
Blood-Thinning Medication
Treatment starts promptly with blood-thinning medication to prevent the clot from growing and allow the body to dissolve it.
You may need this evaluated if...
A pulmonary embolism evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Sudden breathlessness
- Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Swelling or pain in one leg
Pulmonary embolism is a serious but treatable condition when identified and treated promptly.
What is Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that travels to the lungs, usually from a vein in the leg, and blocks blood flow, which can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.
Medical Emergency
Requires urgent diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
Often Linked to Leg Clots
Frequently originates as a blood clot in a deep leg vein.
Rapid Diagnosis Available
CT imaging can confirm the diagnosis quickly.
Very Treatable When Caught Early
Blood-thinning medication is highly effective when started promptly.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden breathlessness
- Sharp chest pain, worse with breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Coughing, sometimes with blood
- Leg swelling or pain
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, environmental and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
CT Pulmonary Angiography
The primary test to directly visualise the clot in the lung arteries.
D-Dimer Blood Test
A blood test that helps rule out clotting in low-risk patients.
Ultrasound of the Legs
Checks for the source clot in the deep leg veins.
Echocardiogram
Assesses the impact on heart function in significant cases.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Blood-thinning medication (anticoagulation)
- Oxygen support if blood oxygen is low
- Compression stockings to support leg circulation
- Long-term anticoagulation based on individual risk
Procedural Care
Clot-dissolving medication or a catheter-based procedure to remove the clot is considered for severe, life-threatening cases.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, lung function and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Unexplained leg swelling with mild breathlessness
- Risk factors with mild new symptoms
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Sudden severe breathlessness or chest pain
- Fainting or coughing up blood
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right pulmonologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right pulmonologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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